Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce

Name: Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making this Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce for special occasions. It’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones. The creamy sauce complements the pasta and adds a luxurious touch that elevates the entire meal. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it tastes like a gourmet creation. Whether it's a romantic dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this pasta bake never fails to impress. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this indulgent experience!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:04:22.094Z

Cooking this Valentine Pasta Bake with Cream Sauce truly brings me joy. I remember the first time I made it for a special date night. The combination of fresh ingredients and creamy sauce made it a memorable dish. I was thrilled watching my partner savor each bite, and it sparked some wonderful conversations over dinner.

As I perfected this recipe, I discovered that allowing the pasta to incorporate with the sauce before baking makes a significant difference. It creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is hard to beat. I now always sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving for that extra touch of flavor!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that envelops the pasta beautifully
Great for a cozy dinner or a romantic date night
Simple yet impressive dish that feels gourmet

      

The Perfect Pasta Choice

Choosing the right pasta is essential for a successful pasta bake. I recommend using penne or fusilli because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce exceptionally well. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. If you have gluten-free guests, you can easily substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety without compromising the dish's overall integrity.

When cooking the pasta, be careful not to overcook it. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven during the baking process. This keeps the pasta from becoming mushy and allows it to maintain a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Building Layers of Flavor

The cream sauce is the star of this dish, and it's crucial to pay attention while preparing it. Sautéing the garlic in olive oil not only infuses the oil with flavor but also enhances the entire dish, giving it a rich aroma. Make sure to cook the garlic just until fragrant; browning it can lead to a bitter taste that won't mesh well with the cream.

Incorporating fresh spinach not only adds a pop of color but also contributes to the nutritional value. Spinach wilts down quickly, so adding it right after the cream ensures it maintains its vibrant color and nutrients. Plus, the slight bitterness of the spinach beautifully balances the richness of the sauce.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking this pasta dish gives it a wonderful texture. Make sure to use a greased baking dish to prevent sticking; a 9x13 inch dish works perfectly for this quantity. Keep an eye on the dish while baking; you want to remove it from the oven once the top is golden and bubbly, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This signals that the cheese has melted and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

For an extra touch, consider topping the dish with additional cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking. A sprinkle of mozzarella or even a dash of crumbly feta can provide a delightful crust that enhances the dish’s appearance and taste. Letting it rest for a few minutes before serving allows the layers to settle, making it easier to serve.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Ingredients for the Pasta Bake

300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to check your pasta package for cooking times to ensure perfect texture.

Instructions

Prepping the ingredients beforehand will make the cooking process smoother.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, chopped spinach, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Mix until everything is well-coated and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Allow the bake to rest a bit before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms into the pasta bake.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Valentine Pasta Bake can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. After combining the ingredients and before baking, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.

Alternatively, you can bake the dish and then store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. This keeps the creamy texture intact, so you can enjoy the indulgent flavors all over again.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize this pasta bake according to your preferences or dietary needs. You can substitute the chicken with cooked sausage or turkey for a different flavor profile. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms that can enhance both texture and taste.

If you're looking to add more depth to the sauce, consider incorporating a splash of white wine during the sauce preparation. This will enhance the flavor and add acidity to balance the creaminess. Just allow it to reduce slightly before mixing in the heavy cream to create a deliciously complex sauce.

Serving Suggestions

When serving the pasta bake, pair it with a light side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the cream sauce beautifully and provides a freshness that brightens the meal. You might also offer some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce, a delightful option for bread lovers.

For a romantic touch, consider garnishing each serving with freshly chopped herbs like basil or oregano. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also enhance the overall flavor, elevating your dish to gourmet status. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also add a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat the pasta bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.